How does Kayla O'Neill recommend handling picky eaters in toddlers?

Exposure: Kayla suggests that it can take 15-20 exposures to a new food before a child will even attempt to taste it. So, persistence is key. She recommends putting a small amount of the new food on the child's plate each time, even if they don't eat it.

Parental Acceptance and Understanding: It's important to remember that developing a diverse palate is a marathon, not a sprint. Kayla advises parents to stay cool and low-pressure, even if the child is not interested in the new food.

Exploring New Foods Outside of Meals: Kayla suggests involving children in the process of making a meal, such as at the grocery store or during meal prep. This can help them get curious about trying new things.

Pair New with Old: If your child loves a certain food, try adding some new ingredients into the dish. This way, they are still getting their favorite food but also trying something new at the same time.

Challenging the Norms: Kayla encourages parents to take a relaxed approach to food. The goal isn't to make them eat, but to make them want to eat.

Familiarize With Foods Through Play: You can start with non-meal times by integrating food into play. This removes the novelty so that it becomes a familiar sight.

The Power of Choice: Offering choices about what to eat can make them feel in control of their experience and be open to trying new things.

Encourage Food Prep Participation: The more they handle the new food, the more likely they are to touch, taste, and explore it later.

The ‘Tiny Taster’ Approach: Offering a very small serving of a new food on their plate is less intimidating for toddlers.

Plate Anatomy of All Known Favourites: When introducing a new food, surround it with items you know they already enjoy.

The Art of Presentation: We eat with our eyes first, and that’s especially true for toddlers. Transform a plain white plate into a canvas.